It's important for students to intervene in their friend’s lives who may be thinking about suicide.

Talking Points:

  • When a student begins to do things out of place from their normal behavior, these can be warning signs of depression or suicidal thoughts.
  • Follow the acronym L.E.A.N. as a simple way to remember the steps it takes to help your friend when they are contemplating suicide.
    • Listen
    • Encourage
    • Ask
    • Notify
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. When have you felt sad or depressed? How long did it last? Who helped you feel better? How did they help?
  3. How does just simply listening to someone help them feel like you care about them? How can you become a better listener?
  4. Why does it feel awkward to ask someone if you can find someone to help them? What would you do if they said no?
  5. Have you ever had to break someone’s trust and confidence and tell someone else what they asked you not to share? What happened?
  6. Do you believe it is better to lose a friend in order to possibly save a life? Why or why not?
  7. Which step in the L.E.A.N. acronym do you think is the most important? Why?
  8. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?